The season is far from over, but if it ended today, who would have a chance at the league’s prize for being the top coach? Through the middle of December, some candidates have emerged, though if things stay as they are, it could be a landslide for one coach in particular.
Paul Maurice found his name on almost every hot seat list out there before the season began but the fast-skating Jets jumped out to a dizzying start that now has them as one of the top teams in the West. Though they’ve cooled a bit, Maurice has certainly quieted the doubters.
Jon Cooper was another coach being questioned as the Tampa Bay Lightning failed to make the playoffs last season, but any semblance of doubt was squashed as the Bolts rose quickly to the top of the Eastern Conference. Sporting the best record in hockey, Cooper has certainly staked his claim as one of the league’s best coaches.
Mike Yeo was a wise choice to bring into St. Louis, as the Blues sit tied for the top spot in the West with division rival Nashville.
But it seems that barring any major collapse, the Adams is earmarked for Gerard Gallant. Unceremoniously and oddly dumped by Florida last season, Gallant has taken an expansion team within just two points of the top spot in the West. Though the league structure is different than previous expansion teams entry into the league, Gallant’s wizardry has been nothing short of amazing as Vegas has stockpiled young talent while also putting an exciting–and fiercely competitive team–on the ice.
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where is Steven from the kings is doing a heck of a job
Link for mobile??
John Stevens should at least be in the poll
John Stevens really should be in this conversation. Took a team that really wasn’t expect to perform is now atop the pacific division.
Wasn’t expected to preform? This is pretty much the same team that won the cup three years ago. Lol. How do you not expect o preform. Move of a clog of a coach in shutter and bring in Stevens to fine tune things.
People said LA had to rebuild or retool. They were not picked by many to be a playoff team. At this point they are a lock to make the playoffs in some capacity
I voted for Gallant, but John Hynes of the Devils should be in this poll. The Devils have been far better than expected
With all due respect to a lot of coaches, this is the EASIEST Jack Adams race I’ve ever seen.
What Gerard Gallant is doing with that roster is amazing.
Seeing how the Panthers fared before him and after him only reinforces that his system gets the most out of mediocre talent than any in the league.
Could not have summed it up better myself. Even if Vegas falters down the stretch, this is Gallant’s award.
It’s Gallant’s to lose he has coached the knights to become the fastest team to 20 wins in NHL history. If he doesn’t win it, it would be a travesty.
How is Bruce Cassidy not an option? Young team, complete philosophical switch in the organization and it’s paying off. Young guys are playing great.
Mike Sullivan